Professional Documents
Culture Documents
COLOSTOMY
Within the past 50 years major advances have occurred in ostomy surgery, including continent diversions such as the
Kock pouch and the ileoanal reservoir. However, each year in the United States, 100,000 people still undergo surgery
to create ostomies. These so-called incontinent diversions are the primary focus of this plan of care.
An ileostomy is an opening constructed in the terminal ileum to treat regional and ulcerative colitis and to divert
intestinal contents in colon cancer, polyps, and trauma. It is usually done when the entire colon, rectum, and anus must
be removed, in which case the ileostomy is permanent. A temporary ileostomy is done to provide complete bowel rest
in conditions such as chronic colitis and in some trauma cases.
A colostomy is a diversion of the effluent of the colon and may be temporary or permanent. Ascending, transverse,
and sigmoid colostomies may be performed. Transverse colostomy is usually temporary. A sigmoid colostomy is the
most common permanent stoma, usually performed for cancer treatment.
CARE SETTING
Inpatient acute care surgical unit.
RELATED CONCERNS
Cancer
Fluid and electrolyte imbalances, see Nurse Care Plan CD-ROM
Inflammatory bowel disease: ulcerative colitis, regional enteritis
Psychosocial aspects of care
Surgical intervention
Total nutritional support: parenteral/enteral feeding
TEACHING/LEARNING
Discharge plan DRG projected mean length of inpatient stay: 9.4 days
considerations: Assistance with dietary concerns, management of ostomy, and acquisition of supplies may
be required
Refer to section at end of plan for postdischarge considerations.
NURSING PRIORITIES
1. Assist patient/SO in psychosocial adjustment.
2. Prevent complications.
3. Support independence in self-care.
4. Provide information about procedure/prognosis, treatment needs, potential complications, and community resources.
DISCHARGE GOALS
1. Adjusting to perceived/actual changes.
2. Complications prevented/minimized.
3. Self-care needs met by self/with assistance depending on specific situation.
4. Procedure/prognosis, therapeutic regimen, potential complications understood and sources of support identified.
5. Plan in place to meet needs after discharge.
NURSING DIAGNOSIS: Skin Integrity, risk for impaired
Risk factors may include
Absence of sphincter at stoma
Character/flow of effluent and flatus from stoma
Reaction to product/chemicals; improper fitting/care of appliance/skin
Possibly evidenced by
[Not applicable; presence of signs and symptoms establishes an actual diagnosis.]
DESIRED OUTCOMES/EVALUATION CRITERIA—PATIENT WILL:
Bowel Elimination (NOC)
Maintain skin integrity around stoma.
Identify individual risk factors.
Demonstrate behaviors/techniques to promote healing/prevent skin breakdown.
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS RATIONALE
Independent
Inspect stoma/peristomal skin area with each pouch Monitors healing process/effectiveness of appliances and
change. Note irritation, bruises (dark, bluish color), identifies areas of concern, need for further
rashes. evaluation/intervention. Early identification of stomal
necrosis/ischemia or fungal infection (from changes in
normal bowel flora) provides for timely interventions to
prevent serious complications. Stoma should be red and
moist. Ulcerated areas on stoma may be from a pouch
opening that is too small or a faceplate that cuts into
stoma. In patients with an ileostomy, the effluent is rich in
enzymes, increasing the likelihood of skin irritation. In
patient with a colostomy, skin care is not as great a
concern because the enzymes are no longer present in the
effluent.
Clean with warm water and pat dry. Use soap only if area Maintaining a clean/dry area helps prevent skin
is covered with sticky stool. If paste has collected on the breakdown.
skin, let it dry, then peel it off.
Measure stoma periodically, e.g., at least weekly for first As postoperative edema resolves (during first 6 wk), the
6 wk, then once a month for 6 mo. Measure both width stoma shrinks and size of appliance must be altered to
and length of stoma. ensure proper fit so that effluent is collected as it flows
from the ostomy and contact with the skin is prevented.
Verify that opening on adhesive backing of pouch is at Prevents trauma to the stoma tissue and protects the
least 1⁄16 to 1⁄8 in (2–3 mm) larger than the base of the peristomal skin. Adequate adhesive area prevents the skin
stoma, with adequate adhesiveness left to apply pouch. barrier wafer from being too tight. Note: Too tight a fit
may cause stomal edema or stenosis.
Use a transparent, odor-proof drainable pouch. A transparent appliance during first 4–6 wk allows easy
observation of stoma without necessity of removing
pouch/irritating skin.
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS RATIONALE
Independent
Apply appropriate skin barrier, e.g., hydrocolloid wafer, Protects skin from pouch adhesive, enhances
karaya gun, extended-wear skin barrier, or similar adhesiveness of pouch, and facilitates removal of pouch
products. when necessary. Note: Sigmoid colostomy may not
require use of a skin barrier once stool becomes formed
and elimination is regulated through irrigation.
Empty, irrigate, and cleanse ostomy pouch on a routine Frequent pouch changes are irritating to the skin and
basis, using appropriate equipment. should be avoided. Emptying and rinsing the pouch with
the proper solution not only removes bacteria and odor-
causing stool and flatus but also deodorizes the pouch.
Support surrounding skin when gently removing Prevents tissue irritation/destruction associated with
appliance. Apply adhesive removers as indicated, then “pulling” pouch off.
wash thoroughly.
Investigate reports of burning/itching/blistering around Indicative of effluent leakage with peristomal irritation, or
stoma. possibly Candida infection, requiring intervention.
Evaluate adhesive product and appliance fit on ongoing Provides opportunity for problem solving. Determines
basis. need for further intervention.
Collaborative
Consult with certified wound, ostomy, continence nurse. Helpful in choosing products appropriate for patient’s
particular rehabilitation needs, including type of ostomy,
physical/mental status, abilities to handle self-care, and
financial resources.
Apply corticosteroid aerosol spray and prescribed Assists in healing if peristomal irritation persists/fungal
antifungal powder as indicated. infection develops. Note: These products can have potent
side effects and should be used sparingly.
Independent
Ascertain whether support and counseling were initiated Provides information about patient’s/SO’s level of
when the possibility and/or necessity of ostomy was first knowledge and anxiety about individual situation.
discussed.
Encourage patient/SO to verbalize feelings regarding the Helps patient realize that feelings are not unusual and that
ostomy. Acknowledge normality of feelings of anger, feeling guilty about them is not necessary/helpful. Patient
depression, and grief over loss. Discuss daily “ups and needs to recognize feelings before they can be dealt with
downs” that can occur. effectively.
Review reason for surgery and future expectations. Patient may find it easier to accept/deal with an ostomy
done to correct chronic/long-term disease than for
traumatic injury, even if ostomy is only temporary. Also,
patient who will be undergoing a second procedure (to
convert ostomy to a continent or anal reservoir) may
possibly encounter less severe self-image problems
because body function eventually will be “more normal.”
Note behaviors of withdrawal, increased dependency, Suggestive of problems in adjustment that may require
manipulation, or noninvolvement in care. further evaluation and more extensive therapy.
Provide opportunities for patient/SO to view and touch Although integration of stoma into body image can take
stoma, using the moment to point out positive signs of months or even years, looking at the stoma and hearing
healing, normal appearance, and so forth. Remind patient comments (made in a normal, matter-of-fact manner) can
that it will take time to adjust, both physically and help patient with this acceptance. Touching stoma
emotionally. reassures patient/SO that it is not fragile and that slight
movements of stoma actually reflect normal peristalsis.
Provide opportunity for patient to deal with ostomy Independence in self-care helps improve self-confidence
through participation in self-care. and acceptance of situation.
Plan/schedule care activities with patient. Promotes sense of control and gives message that patient
can handle situation, enhancing self-concept.
Maintain positive approach during care activities, Assists patient/SO to accept body changes and feel all
avoiding expressions of disdain or revulsion. Do not take right about self. Anger is most often directed at the
angry expressions of patient/SO personally. situation and lack of control individual has over what has
happened (powerlessness), not with the individual
caregiver.
Ascertain patient’s desire to visit with a person with an A person who is living with an ostomy can be a good
ostomy. Make arrangements for visit, if desired. support system/role model. Helps reinforce teaching
(shared experiences) and facilitates acceptance of change
as patient realizes “life does go on” and can be relatively
normal.
NURSING DIAGNOSIS: Pain, acute
May be related to
Physical factors: e.g., disruption of skin/tissues (incisions/drains)
Biological: activity of disease process (cancer, trauma)
Psychological factors: e.g., fear, anxiety
Possibly evidenced by
Reports of pain, self-focusing
Guarding/distraction behaviors, restlessness
Autonomic responses, e.g., changes in vital signs
DESIRED OUTCOMES/EVALUATION CRITERIA—PATIENT WILL:
Pain Level (NOC)
Verbalize that pain is relieved/controlled.
Display relief of pain, able to sleep/rest appropriately.
Pain Control (NOC)
Demonstrate use of relaxation skills and general comfort measures as indicated for individual situation.
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS RATIONALE
Independent
Assess pain, noting location, characteristics, intensity (0– Helps evaluate degree of discomfort and effectiveness of
10 scale). analgesia or may reveal developing complications.
Because abdominal pain usually subsides gradually by the
third or fourth postoperative day, continued or increasing
pain may reflect delayed healing or peristomal skin
irritation. Note:Pain in anal area associated with
abdominal-perineal resection may persist for months.
Encourage patient to verbalize concerns. Active-listen Reduction of anxiety/fear can promote relaxation/comfort.
these concerns, and provide support by acceptance,
remaining with patient, and giving appropriate
information.
Provide comfort measures, e.g., mouth care, back rub, Prevents drying of oral mucosa and associated discomfort.
repositioning (use proper support measures as needed). Reduces muscle tension, promotes relaxation, and may
Assure patient that position change will not injure stoma. enhance coping abilities.
Encourage use of relaxation techniques, e.g., guided Helps patient rest more effectively and refocuses
imagery, visualization. Provide diversional activities. attention, thereby reducing pain and discomfort.
Assist with ROM exercises and encourage early Reduces muscle/joint stiffness. Ambulation returns organs
ambulation. Avoid prolonged sitting position. to normal position and promotes return of usual level of
functioning. Note: Presence of edema, packing, and drains
(if perineal resection has been done) increases discomfort
and creates a sense of needing to defecate. Ambulation and
frequent position changes reduce perineal pressure.
Investigate and report abdominal muscle rigidity, Suggestive of peritoneal inflammation, which requires
involuntary guarding, and rebound tenderness. prompt medical intervention.
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS RATIONALE
Collaborative
Administer medication as indicated, e.g., narcotics, Relieves pain, enhances comfort, and promotes rest. PCA
analgesics, patient-controlled analgesia (PCA). may be more beneficial, especially following anal-
perineal repair.
Provide sitz baths. Relieves local discomfort, reduces edema, and promotes
healing of perineal wound.
Apply/monitor effects of transcutaneous electrical nerve Cutaneous stimulation may be used to block transmission
stimulator (TENS) unit. of pain stimulus.
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS RATIONALE
Independent
Observe wounds, note characteristics of drainage. Postoperative hemorrhage is most likely to occur during
first 48 hr, whereas infection may develop at any time.
Depending on type of wound closure (e.g., first or second
intention), complete healing may take 6-8 mo.
Change dressings as needed using aseptic technique. Large amounts of serous drainage require that dressings
be changed frequently to reduce skin irritation and
potential for infection.
Encourage side-lying position with head elevated. Avoid Promotes drainage from perineal wound/drains, reducing
prolonged sitting. risk of pooling. Prolonged sitting increases perineal
pressure, reducing circulation to wound, and may delay
healing.
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS RATIONALE
Wound Care (NIC)
Collaborative
Irrigate wound as indicated, using normal saline (NS),
diluted hydrogen peroxide, or antibiotic solution.
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS RATIONALE
Independent
Monitor intake and output (I&O) carefully, measure Provides direct indicators of fluid balance. Greatest fluid
liquid stool. Weigh regularly. losses occur with ileostomy, but they generally do not
exceed 500–800 mL/day.
Monitor vital signs, noting postural hypotension, Reflects hydration status/possible need for increased fluid
tachycardia. Evaluate skin turgor, capillary refill, and replacement.
mucous membranes.
Limit intake of ice chips during period of gastric Ice chips can stimulate gastric secretions and wash out
intubation. electrolytes.
Collaborative
Monitor laboratory results, e.g., Hct and electrolytes. Detects homeostasis or imbalance, and aids in
determining replacement needs.
Administer IV fluid and electrolytes as indicated. May be necessary to maintain adequate tissue
perfusion/organ function.
NURSING DIAGNOSIS: Nutrition: imbalanced, risk for less than body requirements
Risk factors may include
Prolonged anorexia/altered intake preoperatively
Hypermetabolic state (preoperative inflammatory disease; healing process)
Presence of diarrhea/altered absorption
Restriction of bulk and residue-containing foods
Possibly evidenced by
[Not applicable; presence of signs and symptoms establishes an actual diagnosis.]
DESIRED OUTCOMES/EVALUATION CRITERIA—PATIENT WILL:
Nutritional Status (NOC)
Maintain weight/demonstrate progressive weight gain toward goal with normalization of laboratory values and
be free of signs of malnutrition.
Plan diet to meet nutritional needs/limit GI disturbances.
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS RATIONALE
Independent
Obtain a thorough nutritional assessment. Identifies deficiencies/needs to aid in choice of
interventions.
Identify odor-causing foods (e.g., cabbage, fish, beans) Sensitivity to certain foods is not uncommon following
and temporarily restrict from diet. Gradually reintroduce intestinal surgery. Patient can experiment with food
one food at a time. several times before determining whether it is creating a
problem.
Recommend patient increase use of yogurt, buttermilk, May help prevent gas and decrease odor formation.
and acidophilus preparations.
Suggest patient with ileostomy limit prunes, dates, stewed These products increase ileal effluent. Digestion of
apricots, strawberries, grapes, bananas, cabbage family, cellulose requires colon bacteria that are no longer
beans, and avoid foods high in cellulose, e.g., peanuts. present.
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS RATIONALE
Nutrition Therapy (NIC)
Collaborative
Advance diet from liquids to low-residue food when oral
intake is resumed.
Administer enteral/parenteral feedings when indicated. Low-residue diet may be maintained during first 6–8 wk
to provide adequate time for intestinal healing.
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS RATIONALE
Independent
Explain necessity to monitor intestinal function in early Patient is more apt to be tolerant of disturbances by staff
postoperative period. if he or she understands the reasons for/importance of
care.
Provide adequate pouching system. Empty pouch before Excessive flatus/effluent can occur despite interventions.
retiring and, if necessary, on a preagreed schedule. Emptying on a regular schedule minimizes threat of
leakage.
Let patient know that stoma will not be injured when Patient will be able to rest better if feeling secure about
sleeping. stoma and ostomy function.
Restrict intake of caffeine-containing foods/fluids. Caffeine may delay patient’s falling asleep and interfere
with REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, resulting in
patient not feeling well rested.
Support continuation of usual bedtime rituals. Promotes relaxation and readiness for sleep.
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS RATIONALE
Sleep Enhancement (NIC)
Collaborative
Determine cause of excessive flatus or effluent, e.g., Identification of cause enables institution of corrective
confer with dietitian regarding restriction of foods if diet- measures that may promote sleep/rest.
related.
Administer analgesics, sedatives at bedtime as indicated. Pain can interfere with patient’s ability to fall/remain
asleep. Timely medication can enhance rest/sleep during
initial postoperative period. Note: Pain pathways in the
brain lie near the sleep center and may contribute to
wakefulness.
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS RATIONALE
Independent
Ascertain patient’s previous bowel habits and lifestyle. Assists in formulation of a timely/effective irrigating
schedule for patient with a colostomy, if appropriate.
Investigate delayed onset/absence of effluent. Auscultate Postoperative paralytic/adynamic ileus usually resolves
bowel sounds. within 48–72 hr, and ileostomy should begin draining
within 12–24 hr. Delay may indicate persistent ileus or
stomal obstruction, which may occur postoperatively
because of edema, improperly fitting pouch (too tight),
prolapse, or stenosis of the stoma.
Inform patient with an ileostomy that initially the effluent Although the small intestine eventually begins to take on
is liquid. If constipation occurs, it should be reported to water-absorbing functions to permit a more semisolid,
enterostomal nurse or physician. pasty discharge, constipation may indicate an obstruction.
Absence of stool requires emergency medical attention.
Review dietary pattern and amount/type of fluid intake. Adequate intake of fiber and roughage provides bulk, and
fluid is an important factor in determining the consistency
of the stool.
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS RATIONALE
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS RATIONALE
Sexual Counseling (NIC)
Independent
Determine patient’s/SO’s sexual relationship before the Identifies future expectations and desires. Mutilation and loss
disease and/or surgery and whether they anticipate of privacy/control of a bodily function can affect patient’s
problems related to presence of ostomy. view of personal sexuality. When coupled with the fear of
rejection by SO, the desired level of intimacy can be greatly
impaired. Sexual needs are very basic, and patient will be
rehabilitated more successfully when a satisfying sexual
relationship is continued/developed as desired.
Review with patient/SO sexual functioning in relation to Understanding if nerve damage has altered normal sexual
own situation. functioning (e.g., erection) helps patient/SO to understand
the need for exploring alternative methods of satisfaction.
Reinforce information given by the physician. Encourage Reiteration of data previously given assists patient/SO to
questions. Provide additional information as needed. hear and process the knowledge again, moving toward
acceptance of individual limitations/restrictions and
prognosis (e.g., that it may take up to 2 yr to regain
potency after a radical procedure or that a penile
prosthesis may be necessary).
Discuss likelihood of resumption of sexual activity in Knowing what to expect in progress of recovery helps
approximately 6 wk after discharge, beginning slowly and patient avoid performance anxiety/reduce risk of
progressing (e.g., cuddling/caressing until both partners “failure.” If the couple is willing to try new ideas, this can
are comfortable with body image/function changes). assist with adjustment and may help to achieve sexual
Include alternative methods of stimulation as appropriate. fulfillment.
Encourage dialogue between partners. Suggest wearing Disguising ostomy appliance may aid in reducing feelings
pouch cover, T-shirt, shortie nightgown, or underwear of self-consciousness, embarrassment during specifically
sexual activity. designed for sexual contact.
Stress awareness of factors that might be distracting (e.g., Promotes resolution of solvable problems. Laughter can
unpleasant odors and pouch leakage). Encourage use of help individuals deal more effectively with difficult
sense of humor. situation, promote positive sexual experience.
Problem-solve alternative positions for coitus. Minimizing awkwardness of appliance and physical
discomfort can enhance satisfaction.
Discuss/role-play possible interactions or approaches Rehearsal is helpful in dealing with actual situations when
when dealing with new sexual partners. they arise, preventing self-consciousness about “different”
body image.
Provide birth control information as appropriate and stress Confusion may exist that can lead to an unwanted
that impotence does not necessarily mean patient is sterile. pregnancy.
Collaborative
Arrange meeting with an ostomy visitor if appropriate. Sharing of how these problems have been resolved by
others can be helpful and reduce sense of isolation.
Refer to counseling/sex therapy as indicated. If problems persist longer than several months after
surgery, a trained therapist may be required to facilitate
communication between patient and SO.
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS RATIONALE
Independent
Evaluate patient’s emotional, cognitive, and physical These factors affect patient’s ability to master care-tasks
capabilities. and willingness to assume responsibility for ostomy care.
Include written/picture (photo, video, Internet) learning Provides references for obtaining support, equipment, and
resources. additional information after discharge to support patient
efforts for independence in self-care.
Review anatomy, physiology, and implications of surgical Provides knowledge base from which patient can make
intervention. Discuss future expectations, including informed choices, and offers an opportunity to clarify
anticipated changes in character of effluent. misconceptions regarding individual situation.
(Temporary ileostomy may be converted to ileoanal
reservoir at a future date; ileostomy and ascending
colostomy cannot be regulated by diet, irrigations, or
medications.)
Instruct patient/SO in stomal care. Allot time for return Promotes positive management and reduces risk of
demonstrations and provide positive feedback for efforts. improper ostomy care/development of complications.
Recommend increased fluid intake during warm weather Loss of normal colon function of conserving water and
months. electrolytes can lead to dehydration and constipation.
Discuss possible need to decrease salt intake. Salt can increase ileal output, potentiating risk of
dehydration and increasing frequency of ostomy care
needs/patient’s inconvenience.
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS RATIONALE
Teaching: Disease Process (NIC)
Independent
Identify symptoms of electrolyte depletion, e.g., anorexia,
abdominal muscle cramps, feelings of faintness or “cold”
in arms/legs, general fatigue/weakness, bloating,
decreased sensations in arms/legs. Loss of colon function altering fluid/electrolyte
absorption may result in sodium/potassium deficits
requiring dietary correction with foods/fluids high in
Discuss need for periodic evaluation/administration of sodium (e.g., bouillon, Gatorade) or potassium (e.g.,
supplemental vitamins and minerals as appropriate. orange juice, prunes, tomatoes, bananas, Gatorade).
Stress importance of chewing food well, adequate intake Depending on portion and amount of bowel resected, lack
of fluids with/following meals, only moderate use of of absorption may cause deficiencies.
high-fiber foods, avoidance of cellulose.
Reduces risk of bowel obstruction, especially in patient
Review foods that are/may be a source of flatus (e.g., with ileostomy.
carbonated drinks, beer, beans, cabbage family, onions,
fish, and highly seasoned foods) or odor (e.g., onions,
cabbage family, eggs, fish, and beans). These foods may be restricted or eliminated, based on
individual reaction, for better ostomy control, or it may be
Identify foods associated with diarrhea, such as green necessary to empty the pouch more frequently if they are
beans, broccoli, highly seasoned foods. ingested.
Recommend foods used to manage constipation (e.g., Promotes more even effluent and better control of
bran, celery, raw fruits), and discuss importance of evacuations.
increased fluid intake.
Proper management can prevent/minimize problems of
Discuss resumption of presurgery level of activity. constipation.
Suggest emptying the ostomy appliance before leaving
home and carrying a fanny pack with fresh supplies.
Recommend resources for obtaining attractive appliances With a little planning, patient should be able to manage
and decorative cummerbunds as appropriate. same degree of activity as previously enjoyed and in some
cases increase activity level. A cummerbund can provide
Talk about the possibility of sleep disturbance, anorexia, both physical and psychological support when patient is
loss of interest in usual activities. involved in activities such as tennis and swimming.
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS RATIONALE
Teaching: Disease Process (NIC)
Independent
Stress necessity of close monitoring of chronic health
conditions requiring routine oral medications.